here is the biggest tip i give to all new bartenders WATCH YOUR ASHTRAYS!!!!! that will tell you how long it has been sence you have been in front of that customer i dont like to let more that 2 or 3 buts in a tray plus people tend to equate time with how much they smoke plus they may run out of cigs and then you can sell them a pack.

and remember when you are talking to someone at the bar dont forget to look down the bar to make sure every one is ok dont mind the person talking to you they know that you are there to do a job and they understand its not being impolite you are doing your job and talking.

and relax if it gets really busy and you get overwehlemed one at a time people know you are trying and will be more patient ._________________Just cause customers don't expect it doesn't mean they don't deserve it.

I am impressed that you had the courage to ask for assistance. I recommend starting with the basics. People will know you are new in your field, specially people in the industry. Most clients will not have a clue though. So, here are some key things you need to have down pat, before serving one drink.

1. Ensure you have a clean & organized bar area

2. Ensure you practice with a bottle and a shooter glass at home so that you DONT SPILL

3. Practice the basic flair moves.

4. know your PRODUCT, study your PRODUCT

5. Understand and respect the laws locally

6. Make sure you bring a POSITIVE Attitude to work

7 SMILE, SMILE, SMILE.

8 Know exactly what you have in your arsenal and more importantly know what you DONT have, because there is nothing more embarrasing that starting a drink like the MAI TAI, only to find out you are short on Dark RUM.

Other than that, its good to see you here, I would like to know where you plan to tend, what city, and who has trained you if anyone._________________The day will come when my mentor will arrive, all I wish to do in the meantime is prepare.